Beer in Sapporo

Hokkaido is known as the birthplace of beer in Japan, as it was here that the Sapporo Beer Brewery was founded in 1876. Sapporo Beer went on to become a Japanese icon around the world, and any beer aficionado who visits this city should make the rounds of this historic brewery’s offerings. You can make a reservation for a factory tour and also visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and the nearby Sapporo Beer Garden to drink your fill.

But that shouldn’t be the only beer you drink in Hokkaido. The region’s beer brewing legacy means there are plenty of other beers to try, so while the Sapporo Beer Factory lies well beyond the city limits, the Asahi Beer Factory is right in town, offering free 20-minutes tours that include three glasses of beer.

To sample the widest variety of locally produced beers, visit Odori Park during the summer, when breweries from around Hokkaido set up beer gardens right in the park. And if you make a day trip to explore the canals of the beautiful harbor town Otaru, stop at Otaru Beer to taste its inspiring lineup of German-inspired and seasonal brews.